Shah Ishfaq

26/12/2025

VB-GRAMG: RDD Anantnag organises Special Gram Sabhas across district

ANANTNAG, DECEMBER 26: Aiming to enhance grassroot awareness on the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-GRAMG) Scheme, the Rural Development Department, Anantnag organised special Gram Sabhas and interactive sessions across the district, today.

Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Shafiq Ahmad Wani attended Gram Sabha at Panchayat Halqa, Hanji Danter of Block Anantnag.

The programme witnessed active participation from community members and other stakeholders who put forward their perspectives on local development and engaged in meaningful discussions on various components of the VB-GRAMG Scheme.

In his address, the ACD elaborated on the objectives, scope, and expected outcomes of the rural employment and livelihood mission. He emphasized the mission’s focus on expanding employment opportunities besides creating durable rural assets, adding that VB-GRAMG strengthens the existing rural job guarantee framework. He reiterated the department is committed to effective implementation of schemes and improved service delivery.

The session culminated in an extensive question-and-answer segment during which queries related to implementation modalities, employment avenues, and future development prospects were addressed.

Citizens appreciated the proactive approach of the department, reaffirming their support for participatory, inclusive, and sustainable rural development.

No:-PR/DDI/K/25/6032/

18/11/2025

Multiple Activities Mark 5th Anniversary of NMBA in Anantnag

Participants Reaffirm Resolve to Fight Drug Abuse

ANANTNAG, NOVEMBER 18: Multiple activities including pledge ceremonies, rallies, awareness sessions, and debates marked the 5th anniversary of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) across Anantnag district today.

These programmes were organised by the District Administration and witnessed enthusiastic participation from senior officers, officials, students, youth, and civil society members, who reaffirmed their resolve to fighting the menace of drug abuse.

The main event, held at Town Hall Anantnag, was presided over by Additional District Magistrate, Tariq Ahmad Malik and attended by the DEPO, DIO, CDPOs, TSWOs, and field officials from the Social Welfare, Health, ICDS, Education, MCA, and other departments.

Administering the NMBA pledge, the ADM urged participants to create community-led mass awareness against drug abuse by engaging officials, youth, civil society members, and other stakeholders so the menace is eradicated from society. He said the district schedule of events has been designed to enhance awareness and participation at the grassroots level, adding that departments are conducting activities in tune with it.

On the occasion, officials from the Social Welfare Department delivered key lectures highlighting the measures being taken to disseminate mass awareness against drug abuse under NMBA.

Similar programmes, including pledge ceremonies and awareness rallies, were held in subdivisions, tehsils, blocks, ULBs, public offices, educational institutions, and other locations in the district.

No:-PR/DDI/K/25/3047/

16/11/2025

Press Release
Today Former Municipal Chairman of Doru Verinag and Chairman of the OBC Welfare Association, J&K UT, conducted a visit to various areas of the Doru constituency today, including the far-flung localities of Kandiwara and Sunderwan in the Sagam block.
During the visit, residents raised several pressing issues, particularly the severe shortage of drinking water. Mohd Iqbal Ahanger appealed to the Hon’ble LG Administration and the District Administration to expedite the provision of drinking water facilities under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). Although the project has already been sanctioned, work has reportedly come to a halt for unknown reasons.
Residents also expressed concern over the poor road connectivity from Kandiwara to Mohripora under the PMGSY scheme.They stated that both the water crisis and the lack of proper roads have made daily life extremely difficult.
The visiting leaders assured the public that these issues would be taken up with the concerned authorities for immediate action.

14/11/2025

KVK Anantnag Begins Training Initiative to Promote Modern Orchard Management

ANANTNAG, NOVEMBER 14: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Anantnag, SKUAST-K, in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture Anantnag, today inaugurated a district-wide series of Pruning-cum-Training Demonstration Sessions aimed at enhancing scientific orchard management among fruit growers.

The first programme was held at the KVK campus for farmers, orchardists, and budding agri-entrepreneurs from Horticulture Zone Dooru. Experts from KVK imparted detailed technical guidance on pruning methods, training systems, and orchard rejuvenation practices. The session also featured hands-on demonstrations across multiple orchard models, with a special focus on Scientific Canopy Management in High-Density Apple Plantations.

Horticulture Development Officer (HDO) Dooru, along with field functionaries from the department, actively participated and interacted with the farmers. The officers highlighted the importance of adopting modern pruning and canopy management techniques to improve fruit quality, enhance productivity, and ensure long-term sustainability of apple orchards.

Head KVK Anantnag, Dr. Ishtiyaq Ahmad Khan on the occasion said that similar training sessions will be conducted across all major horticulture belts of the district in the coming days to empower growers with the latest scientific practices.

No:-PR/DDI/K/25/2997/

14/11/2025

13/11/2025

Kulgam Lifts the title of UT-Level inter District U-19 cricket tournament at Anantnag

ANANTNAG, NOVEMBER 13: District Kulgam emerged as the champion of the UT Level Inter District U-19 Cricket Tournament, organized by the Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), J&K, and hosted by DYSSO Anantnag at multiple venues in the Bijbehara area of Anantnag district.

In a thrilling final match played today at BMHSS Ground, Bijbehara, Kulgam defeated Kupwara by just one wicket to clinch the coveted title. Kupwara, after winning the toss, set a challenging total of 149 runs on the board. In response, Kulgam chased down the target on the last ball of the match, with one wicket remaining.

At the post match presentation ceremony, MLA Bijbehara, Syed Bashir Ahmad Veeri was the chief guest, accompanied by Principal BMHSS Bijbehara Mohammad Iqbal Ganie, DYSSO Anantnag Raja Yaqoob, and other officials of the YSS Department.

The MLA distributed trophies and medals among the winning and runner-up teams.

Meanwhile, Kamran Riyaz from Pulwama was adjudged Man of the Tournament for his outstanding performance, scoring 187 runs and taking 5 wickets throughout the competition.

The tournament witnessed participation from around 350 young cricketers representing 17 districts from both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, showcasing exceptional talent, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship.

No:-PR/DDI/K/25/2981/

13/11/2025

Sakeena Itoo addresses Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Shaheed Himayun Muzzamil Memorial GDC Anantnag

Also inaugurates newly constructed Science Block, Badminton Hall, other infrastructure

ANANTNAG, NOVEMBER 13: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo Education Minister today addressed the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Shaheed Himayun Muzamil Memorial Government Degree College (GDC), Anantnag, marking seventy-five years of academic excellence and dedicated service to higher education across South Kashmir.

MLA Kulgam, M.Y Tarigami; MLA Anantnag-West, Abdul Majid Bhat Larmi; MLA Shangus-Anantnag East, Reyaz Ahmad Khan; MLA Bijbehara-Srigufwara, Dr. Bashir Ahmed Shah Veeri; MLA Kokernag, Zafar Ali Khatana; Additional Chief Secretary Higher Education, Shantmanu; Director Colleges, Prof. Sheikh Aijaz; Principal of the college, Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad Malik; noted Alumni of college, faculty members, senior officers of district administration and large number of students were also present on the occasion.

Addressing a large gathering of students, faculty members, alumni, and dignitaries, the Minister commended the college for its remarkable journey from a modest institution to one of the leading centers of learning in the region. She emphasized that the college has played a vital role in nurturing talent, promoting critical thinking, and contributing to the socio-economic development of the area.

“The Platinum Jubilee of this historic institution is not just a celebration of its glorious past but also a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to building a progressive and knowledge-driven society,” Minister Sakeena said.

She highlighted that from last one year, the government led by Omar Abdullah has brought accountability in the higher education sector across Jammu and Kashmir. She underlined that the Government is given prime importance to Education sector with particular focus on rural and far-flung areas, adding that since formation of this public government, more than 140 Assistant Professors have been posted in peripheral colleges to address the educational needs of youth of these areas.

Minister Sakeena also highlighted that a 12 percent increase in enrolment has been witnessed across Government Colleges form last one year, which reflects the commitment of Government towards improving educational standards in government run colleges.

The Minister further said that several new hostel accommodations have been built and dedicated for the use of students. She added that this step has been taken to facilitate the students living in far flung areas as well as from lower income families so that they can receive higher education.

In her address, the Minister also highlighted the role of this college in producing various personalities who have contributed tremendously towards the society in their respective fields.

On the occasion, several MLAs also spoke and highlighted the role of college development of education sector, especially in South Kashmir.

Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education and Principal of college also spoke on the and highlighted various academic and infrastructural achievements of the college.

Earlier, the Minister also inaugurated Science Block and Badminton Hall along with canteen on the occasion. She highlighted that the Science Block, equipped with modern laboratories and smart classrooms, is expected to provide enhanced learning opportunities and foster research among students. She also said that the Badminton Court and other infra are part of the government’s efforts to improve sports and student welfare facilities, ensuring a holistic educational environment.

The Minister also interacted with students and faculty members, encouraging them to adopt innovative teaching methods, pursue research, and uphold the values of discipline and excellence. She lauded the college administration for maintaining academic vibrancy and introducing career-oriented programs in the institution.

On the occasion, the Minister also presented awards to meritorious students, sports achievers and other students for excelling in their respective fields. She also released various books penned by faculty members of the college.

Earlier, a documentary was also showcased depicting the 75 years of academic journey of the college.

No: PR/DI/25/2227/

12/11/2025

DC Anantnag holds block Diwas at Verinag

ANANTNAG NOVEMBER 12: To address the grievances and concerns of the local community especially related to the ensuing winter season, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, SF Hamid , presided over the Block Diwas today at Koot Verinag.

The event witnessed participation by DDC Shahabad, SDM Dooru, ACD, Tehsildar, BMO and ZEO Verinag, other concerned officers from various departments, members of civil society, ex PRI members and the local public of the area.

During the program, the DC gave a patient hearing to the residents who raised issues pertaining to road connectivity, healthcare services, rationalisation of teachers, advance distribution of ration for winter months, expediting JJM works, desilting of Irrigation canals, commissioning of Receiving Station, availability of men & machinery for snow clearance, construction of infrastructure for schools, among others.

Addressing the gathering, the DC reaffirmed the district administration’s commitment to the time-bound resolution of all genuine grievances, assuring that issues would be taken up with the concerned departments for effective redressal. He issued on spot directions to the concerned officers to ensure prompt and efficient resolution of genuine concerns raised by the public.

Later, accompanied by concerned officers, the DC visited Taxi Stand Dooru and took stock of the municipal services and roadside amenities.

No:-PR/DDI/K/25/2948/

12/11/2025

*Anantnag Police Cracks Down on Drug Trafficking, 3 Peddlers Arrested.*

Anantnag; 12 November
Continuing its sustained drive against the menace of drugs, Anantnag Police have arrested three drug peddlers and recovered a substantial quantity of contraband substances in two separate actions carried out by Police Stations Uttrasoo and Dooru.

During naka checking near Methmoo Crossing, a police party from Police Station Uttrasoo intercepted a person carrying a nylon sack who, on seeing the police party, tried to flee from the spot. The alert police personnel acted swiftly and apprehended him tactfully. The individual was identified as Dilpazeer Khan @ Gojjar Bama, son of Farooq Ahmad, resident of Sanglan Uttrasoo. Upon checking the nylon sack, Bhang Bhoosa (grinded cannabis) weighing 3.140 kilograms was recovered from his possession. In this connection, Case FIR No. 64/2025 under Section 8/20 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Uttrasoo, and investigation has been initiated.

In another action, a police party from Police Station Dooru, during routine naka checking, intercepted two suspects. On their personal search, 750 grams of a ganja-like substance wrapped in nylon and 410 grams of poppy straw were recovered. The accused were identified as Sharoof Ahmad Wagay, son of Ghulam Mohammad, resident of Guchan, and Mohd Yaseen Shah, son of Ghulam Nabi, resident of Tamboripora. Accordingly, Case FIR No. 108/2025 under Sections 8/15, 8/20, and 8/29 of the NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Dooru, and investigation is in progress.

Anantnag Police reiterate their commitment to continue the fight against the drug menace to safeguard the youth and society from the harmful effects of narcotics. The general public is urged to cooperate with the police by sharing information regarding drug peddling or any other anti-social activities. The identity of informers shall be kept strictly confidential.

10/11/2025

TLSC Aishmuqam observes National Legal Services Day with Awareness Programme

ANANTNAG, NOVEMBER 10: To commemorate National Legal Services Day, the Tehsil Legal Services Committee (TLSC) Aishmuqam today organized an awareness programme aimed at promoting legal literacy and ensuring access to justice for all sections of society.

The event focused on educating the public about their legal rights and the various legal aid services available to them, including free legal advice, representation, and mediation. The programme sought to strengthen community engagement and empower individuals to seek justice through legal mechanisms.

The Chairman TLSC Aishmuqam, Shyam Kumar Sharma, urged the participants to remain aware of their legal rights and to actively spread awareness within their communities. He reiterated the Committee’s commitment to empowering people through legal education and facilitating access to justice for all, especially the underprivileged sections of society.

On the occasion, Advocate Naseer Ahmad Mir highlighted the key provisions and significance of the Legal Services Authorities Act. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in bridging the gap between the legal system and common citizens, ensuring that justice is both accessible and affordable.

No:-PR/DDI/K/25/2916/

08/11/2025

SKUAST-K Organises Technology Exhibition-cum-Farmers’ Interaction at South Campus in Anantnag

ANANTNAG, NOVEMBER 8: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K) today organised a Technology Exhibition-cum-Farmers’ Interaction Programme at its Centre of Excellence for Fisheries and Allied Sectors at Bagwini Saller, Anantnag, which is proposed to serve as the South Campus of SKUAST-K.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local farmers, scientists, and officials from the agriculture and allied sectors.

MLA Bijbehara, Dr. Basheer, was the Chief Guest, while Vice-Chancellor SKUAST-K, Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Gani, presided over the function.

During the programme, the dignitaries interacted with farmers and distributed agricultural and fisheries-related inputs among low-income farmers to support their livelihoods and promote sustainable development in the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Basheer said that the establishment of the South Campus of SKUAST-K at Bagwini will significantly boost the agricultural and fisheries sectors in South Kashmir. “This campus will serve as a hub of innovation and skill development, creating employment opportunities and contributing to the economic upliftment of local communities,” he added.

In his address, Prof. (Dr.) Nazir Ahmad Gani highlighted the university’s vision of reaching every corner of the Valley through its extension network. “The South Campus will strengthen SKUAST-K’s outreach by facilitating technology transfer, farmer training, and field-based research to ensure holistic growth of the agriculture sector,” he said.

Among others, DDC Member Nisar Ahmad Mir, scientists, researchers, and officials from SKUAST-K also spoke on the occasion, emphasizing the importance of innovation, farmer engagement, and sustainable resource management.

No:-PR/DDI/K/25/2889/

08/11/2025

Aijaz Asad reviews implementation of RDD schemes in Anantnag

Also inspects ongoing construction of DDC Office Building at Kanjigund

ANANTNAG, NOVEMBER 08: Secretary, Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Mohammad Aijaz Asad, today conducted comprehensive review of implementation of Rural Development schemes across Anantnag district.

During the meeting, the Secretary reviewed the progress of major programmes like MGNREGA, PMAY-G, NRLM, IWMP, and RGSA, besides assessing targets and achievements made under the UT Capex budget.

The meeting was attended by DG Rural Sanitation, Anu Malhotra; Mission Director NRLM, Shubhra Sharma; Director RDD Kashmir, Shabir Hussain Bhat; Director Panchayati Raj, Sham Lal; CEO IWMP, Rajnish Kumar; ACD Anantnag, ACP, BDOs and other senior officers.

The Secretary held detailed deliberations with the ACD, ACP, BDOs, and field officials, directing them to focus on time-bound achievement of all scheme-specific targets.

Reviewing MGNREGA for the current fiscal, it was informed that 20.21 lakh person-days have been generated.

The Secretary emphasized that MGNREGA is fundamentally a livelihood security programme and directed the district administration to ensure optimal utilization of available workforce so that every household seeking employment receives its entitled workdays without delay. He stressed that creation of durable and productive assets must remain central to MGNREGA planning.

Citing the development of a Play Field at Brad Block, Khoveripora as a model of community-focused asset creation, he instructed officials to prioritize works with long-term economic benefits in water conservation, land development, and rural infrastructure, while ensuring strict adherence to quality and technical standards.

Calling for stronger scheme convergence, the Secretary said that assets created under MGNREGA like compost pits and segregation sheds should complement Swachh Bharat Mission–Gramin (SBM-G). He also emphasized that individual-beneficiary works should align with NRLM to enhance agricultural productivity and support livelihoods.

Reviewing PMAY-G, it was informed that 10,324 houses have been completed, marking 94% progress.

Appreciating the district’s performance, the Secretary directed officers to ensure early completion of all sanctioned houses and expedite disbursement of pending instalments to beneficiaries to achieve the goal of Housing for All in rural Anantnag.

Under SBM-G, cumulative achievements indicated substantial improvement in rural sanitation. The Secretary instructed the district administration to ensure sustainability and regular maintenance of sanitation assets, enhance public utilization of community facilities, and strengthen door-to-door waste collection through optimal deployment of available machinery. He also stressed the importance of sustained behaviour-change communication to reinforce sanitation gains across all Gram Panchayats.

While reviewing the NRLM, Aijaz Asad highlighted its critical role in strengthening Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and improving access to finance and skills for rural women. He directed officials to reinforce the institutional framework of SHGs, ensure effective convergence with other schemes, expand livelihood opportunities, and promote micro-enterprises and market linkages, particularly for marginalized households.

Emphasizing on financial literacy and transparent credit flow, he said these are essential for sustainable grassroots economic growth.

Under RGSA, it was informed that 23 Panchayat Ghars have been completed out of the target of 33.

The Secretary stressed the need for continued capacity building of Panchayati Raj Institutions through training, skill development, and better planning processes.

Earlier, ACD Anantnag, Shafeeq Wani, gave a detailed presentation on the progress of RD&PR schemes in the district.

Later, the Secretary visited the DDC Office Building at Kanjigund, where he reviewed the ongoing construction works.

The DDC building is being constructed at an allotted cost of Rs 1.68 crore, with December 15 set as the fixed deadline for its handover.

He directed the district authorities to ensure timely completion of the project.

No: PR/DI/25/2183/